Church of Prophet Elias, Thessaloniki

The Church of Prophet Elijah is one of the city’s most important late Byzantine monuments and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage List as a member of the Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki. The church dates to the 14th century, during the Palaiologan period, the final phase of Byzantine architectural and artistic development.

During the Ottoman period, it was known as the Saraylı Mosque, a name likely derived from its association with a nearby palatial or administrative complex. The modern dedication to the Prophet Elijah appears to stem from a later misinterpretation of this Ottoman name rather than from any original Christian dedication.

Historical evidence indicates that the church was converted into a mosque shortly after the Ottoman capture of Thessaloniki in 1430. During this phase, the building underwent alterations consistent with Islamic worship, though much of its original structure remained intact.

Architecturally, the Church of Prophet Elijah is a distinctive example of the “Athonite type”, a variation of the cross-in-square plan characterized by side apses and an emphasis on vertical space. The exterior masonry, marked by alternating courses of brick and light-colored ashlar stone, reflects strong Constantinopolitan influence.

Inside, the church preserves fragments of original wall paintings dating to the late Palaiologan period. Although incomplete, these frescoes are considered important examples of late Byzantine art and are thought to have influenced later painting traditions in regions such as medieval Serbia. The church’s interior design also makes careful use of natural light, with window placement enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.